crock pot ham recipe
The Best crock pot ham recipe
I love this recipe because it’s so versatile—whether it’s for a quick weeknight meal or a gathering with friends, the ham stays moist and delicious no matter how long it simmers. My kids’ favorite part is the way the ham gets all soft and juicy, and it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables without them even noticing. Plus, it’s got all the good stuff: lean protein, natural sugars from the ham, and healthy fats that keep everyone full and satisfied. It’s one of those meals that’s easy to prep ahead of time, so you can spend your evenings doing something else instead of standing over the stove. And honestly? It’s one of those recipes that never fails to make everyone happy.
Easy Crock Pot Honey Garlic Ham
A tender and flavorful crock pot ham glazed with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 (12-14 lb) bone-in ham, fresh or smoked
- 1 cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
👨🍳Directions
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1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) if using a fresh ham. If using a smoked ham, skip this step. -
2
In a mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Mix well. -
3
Place the ham in the crock pot, skin side up. Pour the honey garlic mixture over the ham, ensuring it is well coated. -
4
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4 hours or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). -
5
Remove the ham from the crock pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
🔧Equipment
- Crock Pot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra flavor, add a few sprigs of fresh thyme and rosemary to the crock pot before adding the ham.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to the sauce.
- This recipe works well with both bone-in and boneless ham.
Watch Video Of How Easy Crock Pot Honey Garlic Ham Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Honey Garlic Ham
1. What is the best type of ham to use for a slow cooker (crock pot) recipe?
The best ham for a crock pot is a bone-in, fresh or smoked bone-in ham, preferably a spiral-cut or whole ham (about 6–8 lbs). Look for one labeled “for baking” or “for slow cooking” to ensure it’s suitable. Avoid pre-cooked or deli ham as it won’t cook evenly.
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2. How long should I cook a bone-in ham in the crock pot, and what temperature should I use?
For a bone-in ham, cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. If using a whole ham, check the thickest part, and if it’s a spiral-cut ham, aim for 145°F (63°C) for tenderness.
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3. Do I need to add any liquid to the crock pot when cooking ham?
Yes! Add 1 cup of broth, apple juice, or water to the crock pot to prevent drying out. For extra flavor, use herbs (thyme, rosemary), garlic, or a splash of honey or brown sugar. Avoid overcrowding—leave room for the ham to cook evenly.
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4. Can I use a pre-cooked ham (deli ham) in the crock pot, and how does it differ from a fresh ham?
No, pre-cooked (deli) ham should not be used in a crock pot—it’s already cooked and can cause food safety risks. Fresh or bone-in hams are the only options. If you want a quick version, you can bake a pre-cooked ham (135°F–140°F) for 10–15 minutes, but slow cooking isn’t recommended.
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5. How do I prevent the ham from drying out in the crock pot?
To keep ham moist:
– Use a bone-in ham (more fat = better moisture).
– Add 1 cup of liquid (broth, juice, or water) at the start.
– Cover loosely with foil or a lid (not airtight) to trap steam.
– Check internal temp—pull it out when it reaches the right temp to avoid overcooking.
– Baste occasionally (if using HIGH setting) with pan juices for extra flavor.
